The New York Mets showcased their bullpen prowess in a nail-biting home opener against the Toronto Blue Jays, securing a 5-0 victory. After starter Tylor Megill exited the game with a two-run lead, right-handed reliever Reed Garrett delivered a clutch performance by striking out key hitters Andres Giménez and Alejandro Kirk, maintaining the lead. The Mets’ bullpen has demonstrated exceptional form early in the season, sporting a 1.40 ERA, ranking second in the majors, and a left-on-base percentage of 80.8%.

With Garrett, Edwin Díaz, and others stepping up, the Mets have made significant improvements over last season, largely credited to new signings like A.J. Minter. Manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the versatility and effectiveness of his bullpen, which has not allowed a run in multiple outings. Despite injuries affecting the starting rotation, Garrett noted a healthy competition among relievers, which has led to a measly four earned runs allowed over 25.2 innings.

The New York Mets have solidified their bullpen by re-signing right-hander Ryne Stanek to a one-year deal worth $4.5 million, which includes up to $500,000 in incentives. Stanek, who was acquired from the Seattle Mariners last July, had a challenging regular season with a 6.06 ERA, but excelled in the playoffs with a 3.38 ERA and eight strikeouts over eight innings.

Alongside Stanek, the Mets recently added left-handed reliever A.J. Minter, who boasts a career 3.28 ERA and was part of the Atlanta Braves' 2021 World Series-winning team. Both Stanek and Minter are expected to be crucial links to All-Star closer Edwin Díaz, who recently returned from a knee surgery.

The New York Mets have signed A.J. Minter on a two-year, $22 million deal, bolstering their bullpen ahead of the 2025 season. Minter, who previously pitched for the Atlanta Braves, is known for his late-game effectiveness, boasting a 3.28 career ERA over 348 innings and 36 saves. However, he struggled last season due to a hip injury, which limited his effectiveness and resulted in surgery for a labral tear. Minter's velocity has also dropped, raising concerns about his return to form.

Despite these issues, the Mets believe Minter can return to his previous level of performance, reminiscent of fellow pitcher David Peterson, who had a successful recovery from similar surgery. The Mets' relief corps now includes closer Edwin Diaz, along with Minter, Reed Garrett, and Dedniel Nuñez, suggesting a commitment to improving their late-game reliability after struggles during the postseason.

The New York Mets have signed left-handed reliever A.J. Minter to a two-year deal worth $22 million, with an opt-out clause after the first year. Minter, 31, previously pitched for the Atlanta Braves and has a career 3.28 ERA. He had a significant hip surgery that sidelined him for the latter part of the last season, raising concerns about his performance. Minter joins a Mets bullpen that includes closer Edwin Díaz and others, as the team continues to bolster its roster. This marks the second signing in two days, following the acquisition of outfielder Jesse Winker.